Movies are a very prominent part of our lives, especially since we live in the U.S. Each year, over 700 new movies are released in the United States. The intense trailers that leave us on the edge of our seats convince us that we MUST see these new movies. Sometimes, we see a movie and we completely regret it, because we wasted two whole hours of our precious time. However, we may get lucky and watch one of the best movies ever made.

A Beautiful Mind is the first movie that is truly amazing. This movie teaches morals and shares a true story that enlightens and inspires. The movie is about a man who has the mental illness of schizophrenia and struggles daily to survive. One of the major themes in this movie is gratefulness. John Nash, the man who had schizophrenia, takes each day as it comes, and he never gives up. This inspires people to be grateful for everything they have, especially the little things that each day brings.

The Wizard of Oz, the next movie you must see. This is purely a classic movie, and if you don’t ever get the chance to see it, you will definitely be sorry. When a tornado erupts through Kansas, Dorthy and her dog are transported to the magic land of Oz. They travel a long journey on the Yellow Brick Road and meet many people along their way. Many lessons are found throughout this movie. For example, the best of friends come in the most random places. Just because Dorthy’s friends were very different from her, they are the ones who always had her back. The famous saying, “There is no place like home” originates from this movie and teaches us that everything we need is in our homes.

The Godfather, one of the most top rated movies ever made, is a movie that everyone must see before they die. This movie focuses on the extremely powerful family of Don Vito. The youngest son, Michael, ends up joining the Mafia and struggles to maintain a normal life, because he keeps getting pulled deeper and deeper into his work. The main lesson found throughout this movie is never let people pressure you into making a decision that you normally would not and do not agree with.

Forrest Gump is an American favorite because it is entertaining, with a good plot, all while sharing an important lesson and story. This movie is about a young man named Forrest, who never specifically thought of himself as disadvantaged, but others around him suspected otherwise. He proves everyone wrong as his life progresses, when he is the star of a college football team, serves in the military, and he inspires almost everyone with his childlike perspective on the world. Something that we can take away from this movie is we can never know how much we are capable of if we don’t even try.

The Titanic is another must-see movie. This is, hands down, one of the most excellent movies ever created. Since The Titanic is based on a true story, it really gives insight on what it was like to be on the boat. If you haven’t seen The Titanic you are missing out on a big part of history. This movie displays love and sacrifice on another level. Rose and Jack got on the boat expecting it to be fun, and nothing out of the ordinary. Little did they know, it would affect their lives greatly. This inspires us to live every day to the full because we never know what can happen and when we won’t get a tomorrow.

The Sound of Music, a movie with great music and acting, is based on the real-life story of the Von Trapp Family. Maria came into the Von Trapp Family’s life and showed them what life with music is like. This brings a new joy and love into the home because each child can bring all their emotions to the songs, and it makes their problems not seem so big anymore. One of the major things we can take away from this movie, besides pure entertainment and joy, is to appreciate your surroundings.

Lion, a movie that came out about a year ago, is the next best movie. This is one of the most inspiring movies you will ever watch. It is based on a true story about a young boy named Saroo. Saroo gets lost on a train by himself, and it takes him thousands of miles away from home. He has to learn how to survive on his own and take care of himself. Later, he is adopted by an Australian couple who raise him into a brilliant young man. Saroo goes on a journey of finding his family that he lost when he was younger. This movie is inspiring because it makes us appreciate our families much more.

La La Land is yet another wonderful movie. This move is about a young woman named Mia, and a young man named Sebastian. They are both trying to achieve their dreams, and they share a lot of their story by singing. Each one struggles to make their dreams come true, but they never give up. It proves that it is possible to do what you dream of, as long as you have the motivation and passion.

Mamma Mia is one of the best musicals ever made for several reasons. It is entertaining to watch because of the plot line and amazing music. It is a lighthearted movie about a girl who lives in Greece and is going to get married. She didn’t grow up with a dad, so she invited 3 of her mother’s past boyfriends to the wedding.  When you watch this movie, you will find that you are smiling through most of it.

Shawshank Redemption is the last movie you must see. This movie is about a group of men who have been sentenced to life in prison, but it shares a great story along the way. We see true friendship spark, and it helps us realize that we can really be friends with anyone as long as we put them before ourselves. Sacrifice and love come to play in this movie and it is very inspiring.

Hopefully this list of movies will make your life a little more enjoyable and entertaining.